Why was the Liver King arrested and what’s Joe Rogan got to do with it?

Brian Johnson, the controversial fitness influencer known as the “Liver King,” was arrested in Austin, Texas, on Tuesday evening after posting a series of bizarre videos targeting podcast host Joe Rogan.

Johnson, 47, was charged with a misdemeanor for making a terroristic threat and booked into the Travis County Jail around 8:30 p.m., according to online records. The arrest came shortly after he uploaded a string of erratic clips to social media in which he referenced being arrested, going to prison, and even challenging Rogan to a fight.

Wearing a tactical vest, hoodie, and sweatpants, Johnson appeared in one video pacing his living room, muttering about his fate while meditation music played in the background. He was seen attempting to pocket a utility knife—something his cameraman advised against—before two individuals entered the room to escort him out. Johnson pleaded for “12 more minutes to s--t” before being led away.


In another clip, Johnson addressed a black ammo box labeled with “The Joe Rogan Experience” logo, telling those around him that if he was arrested, the box should be delivered to “The Mothership,” Rogan’s comedy club in Austin. The stunt escalated with a group prayer and a hug involving his family, all while sirens blared outside.

The arrest's connection to Joe Rogan remains unclear, and Rogan himself has not commented publicly. Notably, Rogan has never hosted Johnson on his podcast, but he has previously criticized Johnson’s alleged steroid use. In response, Johnson—dressed in a wolf pelt—posted multiple videos calling out Rogan, saying, “Man to man, I’m picking a fight with you,” and declaring he was “willing to die” in the ring.

Johnson’s larger-than-life persona was also spotlighted in the Netflix documentary Untold: The Liver King, which explored how he built his social media empire promoting raw organ meat diets and extreme fitness.

While Johnson claimed his physique came from hard work and supplements, leaked emails revealed he was spending over $11,000 a month on steroids. He eventually admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs.

As of now, the Austin Police Department has not provided an official statement regarding the arrest.